Package of Stacked Fibrous Structure Sheets and Methods of Dispensing From Same

ABSTRACT

Packages of stacked fibrous structure sheets and methods of dispensing the same are described. The fibrous structure sheets can have a non-planar dispensing configuration that is manipulated to a second configuration for their intended use; for example, absorbing liquids and other messes. The stacked format is an alternative to typically rolled form, and can permit one-handed dispensing.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to packages of stacked fibrousstructure sheets and methods of dispensing the same. The fibrousstructure sheets can take the form of paper towels, personal wipes,facial tissues, bath tissues, and the like. The fibrous structure sheetsof the present invention are generally intended to perform a cleaning ordrying function and should be distinguished from other stacked paperproducts such as, for example, paper cups, coffee filters, and othersimilar items that aren't designed for drying and cleaning tasks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Fibrous structures in the form of paper towels are generallymanufactured and sold in a rolled configuration. While useful in thisconfiguration, it can make one-handed dispensing difficult. The useroften must hold the roll still with one hand while tearing off a singlesheet with the other hand. And two-handed dispensing avoids the problemof inadvertently pulling off more sheets than is intended or needed. Butone reason consumers need to use a paper towel is because his or herhands are wet or soiled, and two-handed dispensing can result in onehand (that is, the holding or helping hand) getting non-dispensedportions of the paper towel roll undesirably damp or dirty.

To address the above shortcoming, the inventors in U.S. Pat. No.7,954,665 disclose a new configuration of paper wipes that are in anon-attached and stacked form, wherein a consumer can one-handedly graspa wipe and remove it from the stack. FIG. 1 shows a representativeembodiment (included as FIG. 2) of the '665 patent, which includes apackage 10 of stacked wipes 12. Package 10 has a sidewall 13 with anopening 14 therein to facilitate removal of wipes 12. Note that the topof the stacked wipes 12 is not covered. The stacked configuration andpackage dispenser advantageously allow the wipes 12 to sit on a kitchencounter, bathroom counter or floor, or on a garage work bench, forexample. The flexibility of dispensing environment and configurationopenness shown in FIG. 1 however can again lead to the non-dispensedwipes becoming prematurely wet or contaminated before they are used inan intended task. At least some of the embodiments of the presentinvention are capable of addressing this shortcoming.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following detailed description of specific embodiments of thepresent invention can be best understood when read in conjunction withthe drawings enclosed herewith.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment included in U.S.Pat. No. 7,954,665.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a first package embodimentprovided by the present invention.

FIGS. 3A-3H are plan views of a fibrous structure sheet being cut from acontinuous planar web, and then being manipulated from its initialplanar configuration to an exemplary non-planar dispensingconfiguration.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary fibrous structure sheethaving a pyramidal configuration and a pleat.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the underside of the fibrous structuresheet in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a second package embodimentprovided by the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the package embodiment shown inFIG. 6, with a portion of its sidewall and top being swung open topermit dispensing of fibrous structure sheets contained therein.

FIG. 8A is a front perspective view of a third package embodimentprovided by the present invention.

FIG. 8B is a front perspective view of a package embodiment that issimilar to the one shown in FIG. 8A, but in an inverted orientation tothat shown in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a portion of another packageembodiment that comprises an optional hanger feature for allowing thepackage to be hung rather than placed onto a counter, floor, or otherflat home surface.

FIGS. 10A and 10 B are front perspective views of a package embodimenthaving a re-closable access.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of another package embodiment of thepresent invention that has a changeable configuration as fibrousstructure sheets are dispensed.

FIGS. 12-15 are block diagrams of exemplary dispensing methods providedby the present invention.

The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative in nature andnot intended to be limiting of the invention defined by the claims.Moreover, individual features of the drawings and invention will be morefully apparent and understood in view of the detailed description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following text sets forth a broad description of numerous differentembodiments of the present invention. The description is to be construedas exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment sincedescribing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if notimpossible. And it will be understood that any feature, characteristic,component, composition, ingredient, product, step or methodologydescribed herein can be deleted, combined with or substituted for, inwhole or part, any other feature, characteristic, component,composition, ingredient, product, step or methodology described herein.Numerous alternative embodiments could be implemented, using eithercurrent technology or technology developed after the filing date of thispatent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims. Allpublications and patents cited in the Detailed Description of theInvention section are incorporated herein by reference.

It should also be understood that, unless a term is expressly defined inthis specification using the sentence “As used herein, the term ‘______’is hereby defined to mean . . . ” or a similar sentence, there is nointent to limit the meaning of that term, either expressly or byimplication, beyond its plain or ordinary meaning, and such term shouldnot be interpreted to be limited in scope based on any statement made inany section of this patent (other than the language of the claims). Noterm is intended to be essential to the present invention unless sostated. To the extent that any term recited in the claims at the end ofthis patent is referred to in this patent in a manner consistent with asingle meaning, that is done for sake of clarity only so as to notconfuse the reader, and it is not intended that such a claim term belimited, by implication or otherwise, to that single meaning. Finally,unless a claim element is defined by reciting the word “means” and afunction without the recital of any structure, it is not intended thatthe scope of any claim element be interpreted based on the applicationof 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph.

“Filament” as used herein means an elongate particulate that exhibits alength of greater than or equal to 5.08 cm (2 in.) and/or greater thanor equal to 7.62 cm (3 in.) and/or greater than or equal to 10.16 cm (4in.) and/or greater than or equal to 15.24 cm (6 in.).

Filaments are typically considered continuous or substantiallycontinuous in nature. Filaments are relatively longer than fibers.Non-limiting examples of filaments include meltblown and/or spunbondfilaments. Non-limiting examples of polymers that can be spun intofilaments include natural polymers, such as starch, starch derivatives,cellulose, such as rayon and/or lyocell, and cellulose derivatives,hemicellulose, hemicellulose derivatives, and synthetic polymersincluding, but not limited to polyvinyl alcohol, thermoplastic polymer,such as polyesters, nylons, polyolefins such as polypropylene filaments,polyethylene filaments, and biodegradable thermoplastic fibers such aspolylactic acid filaments, polyhydroxyalkanoate filaments,polyesteramide filaments and polycaprolactone filaments.

“Fiber” as used herein means an elongate particulate as described abovethat exhibits a length of less than 5.08 cm (2 in.) and/or less than3.81 cm (1.5 in.) and/or less than 2.54 cm (1 in.).

Fibers are typically considered discontinuous in nature. Non-limitingexamples of fibers include pulp fibers, such as wood pulp fibers, andsynthetic staple fibers such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester,copolymers thereof, rayon, glass fibers and polyvinyl alcohol fibers.

Staple fibers may be produced by spinning a filament tow and thencutting the tow into segments of less than 5.08 cm (2 in.) thusproducing fibers.

In one example of the present invention, a fiber may be a naturallyoccurring fiber, which means it is obtained from a naturally occurringsource, such as a vegetative source, for example a tree and/or plant,such as trichomes. Such fibers are typically used in papermaking and areoftentimes referred to as papermaking fibers. Papermaking fibers usefulin the present invention include cellulosic fibers commonly known aswood pulp fibers. Applicable wood pulps include chemical pulps, such asKraft, sulfite, and sulfate pulps, as well as mechanical pulpsincluding, for example, groundwood, thermomechanical pulp and chemicallymodified thermomechanical pulp. Chemical pulps, however, may bepreferred since they impart a superior tactile sense of softness tofibrous structures made therefrom. Pulps derived from both deciduoustrees (hereinafter, also referred to as “hardwood”) and coniferous trees(hereinafter, also referred to as “softwood”) may be utilized. Thehardwood and softwood fibers can be blended, or alternatively, can bedeposited in layers to provide a stratified web. Also applicable to thepresent invention are fibers derived from recycled paper, which maycontain any or all of the above categories of fibers as well as othernon-fibrous polymers such as fillers, softening agents, wet and drystrength agents, and adhesives used to facilitate the originalpapermaking.

In addition to the various wood pulp fibers, other cellulosic fiberssuch as cotton linters, rayon, lyocell, and bagasse fibers can be usedin the fibrous structures of the present invention.

“Fibrous structure” as used herein means a structure that comprises oneor more fibrous elements. In one example, a fibrous structure accordingto the present invention means an association of fibrous elements thattogether form a structure capable of performing a function. In anotherexample of the present invention, a fibrous structure comprises aplurality of inter-entangled fibrous elements, for example filaments.

“Sanitary tissue product” as used herein means a soft, relatively lowdensity fibrous structure useful as a wiping implement for post-urinaryand post-bowel movement cleaning (toilet tissue), forotorhinolaryngological discharges (facial tissue), multi-functionalabsorbent and cleaning uses (absorbent paper towels) and wipes, such aswet and dry wipes. Sanitary tissue products include paper products,including paper products made with cellulosic fibers, the primaryintended use of which is to absorb liquids. Thus, substrates such asfilms, polymer films, foils, non-absorbent wipes, filter paper, paperutilized for paper cups and other containers, and other forms ofsubstrates that do not have a primary intended purpose of absorbency arenot considered sanitary tissue products as used herein.

The sanitary tissue products and/or fibrous structures of the presentinvention may exhibit a basis weight between about 1 g/m² to about 5000g/m² and/or from about 10 g/m² to about 500 g/m² and/or from about 10g/m² to about 300 g/m² and/or from about 10 g/m² to about 120 g/m²and/or from about 15 g/m² to about 110 g/m² and/or from about 20 g/m² toabout 100 g/m² and/or from about 30 to 90 g/m² as determined by theBasis Weight Test Method described herein. “Basis Weight” as used hereinis the weight per unit area of a sample reported in lbs/3000 ft² or g/m²as determined by the Basis Weight Test Method described herein.

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit a CRTabsorbent capacity of from about 0.1 grams per square inch to about 1.5grams per square inch, from about 0.2 grams per square inch to about 1.2grams per square inch, or from about

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit atotal dry tensile strength of greater than about 59 g/cm and/or fromabout 78 g/cm to about 394 g/cm and/or from about 98 g/cm to about 335g/cm. In addition, the sanitary tissue product of the present inventionmay exhibit a total dry tensile strength of greater than about 196 g/cmand/or from about 196 g/cm to about 394 g/cm and/or from about 216 g/cmto about 335 g/cm and/or from about 236 g/cm to about 315 g/cm. In oneexample, the sanitary tissue product exhibits a total dry tensilestrength of less than about 394 g/cm and/or less than about 335 g/cm asmeasured according to the Elongation/Tensile Strength/TEA/TangentModulus Test Method described herein.

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may exhibit adensity of less than 0.60 g/cm³ and/or less than 0.30 g/cm³ and/or lessthan 0.20 g/cm³ and/or less than 0.15 g/cm³ and/or less than 0.10 g/cm³and/or less than 0.07 g/cm³ and/or less than 0.05 g/cm³ and/or fromabout 0.01 g/cm³ to about 0.20 g/cm³ and/or from about 0.02 g/cm³ toabout 0.15 g/cm³ and/or from about 0.02 g/cm³ to about 0.10 g/cm³.

The fibrous structures of the present disclosure can be single-ply ormulti-ply fibrous structures and can comprise cellulosic pulp fibers.Other naturally-occurring and/or non-naturally occurring fibers can alsobe present in the fibrous structures. In one example, the fibrousstructures can be through dried, or “through air dried (TAD)”. In oneexample, the fibrous structures can be wet-laid fibrous structures. Thefibrous structures can be incorporated into single- or multi-plysanitary tissue products. The sanitary tissue products or fibrousstructures can be in roll form where they are convolutedly wound orwrapped about themselves with or without the employment of a core. Inother embodiments, the sanitary tissue products or fibrous structurescan be in sheet form or can be at least partially folded overthemselves. Fibrous structures of the present invention can have basisweights in the range of 15 lbs/3000 ft² to 30 lbs/3000 ft² per ply, or30 or lbs/3000 ft², 40 lbs/3000 ft², 50 lbs/3000 ft², or 60 lbs/3000 ft²for 2-ply structures.

The fibrous structures of the present invention can be made by using apatterned papermaking belt for forming three-dimensionally structuredwet-laid webs as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,637,859, issued Jan. 20,1987, to Trokhan. Broadly, the papermaking belt of the present inventionincludes a reinforcing element (such as a woven belt) which can bethoroughly coated with a liquid photosensitive polymeric resin to apreselected thickness. A film or negative incorporating the patterndesired is juxtaposed on the liquid photosensitive resin. The resin isthen exposed to light of an appropriate wave length through the film.This exposure to light causes curing of the resin in the exposed areas(i.e., white portions or non-printed portions in the film). Unexposed(and uncured) resin (under the black portions or printed portions in thefilm) is removed from the system leaving behind the cured resin formingthe pattern desired, which pattern transfers during the wet-formingphase of papermaking to the fibrous structure.

The sanitary tissue products of the present invention may compriseadditives such as softening agents, temporary wet strength agents,permanent wet strength agents, bulk softening agents, lotions,silicones, wetting agents, latexes, patterned latexes and other types ofadditives suitable for inclusion in and/or on sanitary tissue products.

The present invention is directed to packages of stacked fibrousstructure sheets. Referring now to the figures, FIG. 2 shows a firstexemplary embodiment of a package 20 of stacked fibrous structure sheets22. Package 20 includes a package base 23, a package top 24, and asidewall 25. While the description and claims may use terms like “top”,“base”, and “bottom” that traditionally connote an orientation, thescope of the claims is not so limited. That is, packages and otherstructural items described herein can be oriented in multiple waysduring their manufacture, shipping, in-store shelving, and in-home use.

The plurality of fibrous structure sheets 22 are placed adjacent oneanother to form a sheet stack 26 having a stack bottom 27 and a stacktop 28. Fibrous structure sheets 22 within sheet stack 26 aredisconnected to one another in a preferred embodiment, but canalternatively be temporarily connected (for example, via a perforationor other line of weakness), and/or nested or interfolded together priorto dispensing. The package base 23, package top 24, and package sidewall25 of package 20 comprises straight edges, as opposed to curved edges,which can help with positioning the package into corners or againststraight edges in one's home. With reference to FIGS. 3A-3H, fibrousstructure sheets 22 can be made in an initial planar configuration beingindividually cut (see FIG. 3B) from a continuous planar fibrousstructure web 21 (see FIG. 3A). Before or after cutting the sheets 22(completely or partially), they are folded or otherwise manipulated intoa non-planar dispensing configuration as shown in FIGS. 3C-3H. Exemplarynon-planar dispensing configurations include, but are not limited to,conical and pyramidal.

With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, many of the non-planar dispensingconfigurations include a sheet base 30, a sheet peak 31, and an interiorvoid 32. The folding and/or other manipulation can create one or morepleats 33. The pleats, when present, can permit easy dispensing byallowing a user to grasp an individual sheet by the pleat and remove itfrom the sheet stack. In some embodiments of the present invention, theterminal or free end of the pleat can substantially align with a corner,fold line, or ridge like that shown in FIG. 4. This way the corner, foldline, or ridge can act as a visual aid to alert consumers where thepleat is located to grasp the same for easy dispensing. This is notpossible in some non-planar embodiments, such as a conical shape.

In some embodiments, the fibrous structure sheets, in their non-planardispensing configuration, have a base or cross-sectional geometry thatis substantially similar to geometry of package components. In otherembodiments, the sheet base or cross-sectional geometry is differentthan geometry of the package in which they are contained.

Once removed from the sheet stack, a user can transform the fibrousstructure sheet from its non-planar dispensing configuration to one ormore use configurations depending on the intended task. For example, auser can drop the fibrous structure sheet in a partially but notcompletely unfolded configuration (with minimal or without anyaffirmative action on the user's part) onto a spill or mess to becleaned to allow the fibrous structure sheet to begin absorbing orotherwise collecting the spill or mess. A user can also substantiallycompletely unfold the fibrous structure sheet to approach a planarconfiguration prior to use. Or a user can affirmatively partially unfolda fibrous structure sheet prior to its use; for example, unfold thefibrous structure sheet about a number of fold lines that is fewer thanthe total number of fold lines the sheet has in its non-planardispensing configuration.

Referring again to FIG. 2, package base 23 covers sheet stack bottom 27,and package top 24 covers sheet stack top 28. Covering both the sheetstack bottom 27 and top 28 helps keep the fibrous structure sheets 22dry and clean prior to dispensing the sheets. “Dry” as that term is usedherein means a fibrous structure sheet having a level of moisture (forexample, up to 8%) that it absorbs due to manufacturing and/orenvironmental conditions. While the fibrous structure sheets have alimited amount of moisture in them, they are still useful for absorbingliquids and other messes.

In one embodiment and as shown in FIG. 2, package top 24 is unconnectedfrom the other package components. A user can displace package top 24,remove one or more fibrous structure sheets 22 from the sheet stack, andthen replace the package top 24 until future dispensing is desired. Abenefit of having the package top 24 unconnected from other packagingcomponents is to allow a user to create two separate sheet stacks frompackage 20. Package top 24 once removed can be configured to act as asecond package base that is capable of holding a sub-stack of fibrousstructure sheets. A user can then place the first sub-stack in onelocation in their home (for example, in their kitchen) and the secondsub-stack in another location (for example, in their bathroom orgarage).

FIG. 6 illustrates a second exemplary package embodiment 40 thatincludes similar package components to that shown in FIG. 2, including apackage base 43, a package top 44, and a sidewall 45. One or more of thepackage components are displaceable from a first location to a secondlocation, the same as with package 20, but the displaceable packagecomponent(s) in this embodiment remain connected to the other packagecomponents. For example and as shown in FIG. 7, package top 44 and aportion of package sidewall 45 can be swung out of the way to permitdispensing of the contained fibrous structure sheets 42, and thenrepositioned thereafter.

In package embodiments 20 and 40, the package components remain in theirinitial location prior to dispensing and are then moved or displaced toa second location to permit fibrous structure sheet dispensing. In athird exemplary package embodiment 50 that is shown in FIG. 8A, thesheet stack top and bottom are covered by package components to helpkeep the fibrous structure sheets dry and clean before use, but thepackage components do not need to be displaced to permit sheetdispensing. In package 50, there is an opening 58 in sidewall 55 and aclearance gap 59 between the package base 53 and the sheet stack bottomthat enables an individual fibrous structure sheet 52 to be pulled awayfrom the reaming sheets in the sheet stack sufficiently to permitdispensing from sidewall opening 58. FIG. 8B shows a similar package 60to package 50, wherein the clearance gap 61 exists between a between apackage top 62 and a sheet stack top 63.

FIG. 9 shows a portion of another package embodiment 64 that is capableof covering the sheet stack top and bottom, but does not requiredisplacement of package components for dispensing contained fibrousstructure sheets 65. In this embodiment, a flexible package material 66(for example, a polymeric film) substantially envelopes the sheet stackand contains an opening 67 for dispensing the fibrous structure sheets65. Package 64 also contains an optional hanger feature in the form of ahandle loop 68. The hanger feature allows the package to be hung asalternative to sitting the package on a counter, floor, or other flathome surface. Other hanger features beyond just a handle loop arecontemplated by the present invention. And an optional hanger featurecould be added to any of the other package embodiments shown anddescribed herein.

Another exemplary package embodiment 70 is shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B.Package 70 includes a first package component 71 in the form of aflexible polymeric film and a second package component 72 that isrelatively more rigid than the film to help provide structural integrityto the package. Package component 72 can be made from board stock orfrom a molded polymeric piece, for example. Package component 71comprises or is otherwise configured to provide a re-closable access 73.As shown in FIG. 10B, re-closable access 73 is provided with a tongueand groove closure mechanism 74. In this and similar packageembodiments, the package can completely enclose the stack of fibrousstructure sheets to help protect them prior to dispensing and use.Besides a tongue and groove closure mechanism, peelable labels or overlabels (covering package openings) can also be used on flexible orinflexible packages of the present invention. The peelable labels cancarry low-tack adhesives that enable a label to be peeled away from apackage substrate for dispensing and resealed to the package substratemultiple times.

In an alternative package embodiment, the package can be made solelyfrom flexible material such as, for example, package component 71. Inthis alternative embodiment, Since package component 71 can be made froma flexible (or adaptable) material, a user can decrease the size of thepackage as fibrous sheet stacks are removed from the package and there-closable access is placed into its closed position. Decreasing thesize of the package can provide a number of different benefits,including, decreasing the amount of space the package takes up,facilitating dispensing of remaining fibrous structure sheets, andacting as a visual reminder to purchase more packages of fibrousstructure sheets at an upcoming shopping trip.

Many of the above-described package embodiments include features to keepthe sheet stack top and bottom covered when the fibrous structure sheetsare not being dispensed. In another package embodiment 80 (shown in FIG.11), the package has a sidewall 81 that substantially covers or enclosesthe entire sheet stack (for example, covers some or all of every one ofthe plurality of individual sheets). In this and similar embodiments,the package comprises an adaptation feature that allows a user to modifythe configuration of the package as the sheet stack decreases in size.This modification is the result of an affirmative action/manipulation bya user and is distinguished from an automatic configuration changesimply due to fewer fibrous structure sheets being present within thepackage. Thus, the package size (height, width, length, volume, etc.)can decrease as the sheet stack decreases.

Exemplary adaptation features include a fold line and a line of weakness(for example, perforation line or score line). As sheets are dispensedfrom the package, a user can remove portions of the package sidewall, orfold or roll down portions of the package sidewall. In this manner, thepackage sidewall can support and protect the sheets and be manipulatedfor a type of “dosed” dispensing. Package 80 is shown having aperforation line 82 disposed in sidewall 81. As fibrous structure sheets83 are removed from package 80, a user can decrease the size of thepackage by removing portions of sidewall 81 by tearing them off viaperforation line 82. A benefit of manipulating a package sidewall versusremoving a portion of it however is that the sidewall can berepositioned to its original configuration and loaded with a refillstack of fibrous structure sheets.

The package embodiments shown in the figures generally illustrate howthey would look once purchased and placed in an intended dispensinglocation. Thus, the package embodiments may also include secondarypackaging at point of sale that is intended to protect the primarypackage and the fibrous structure sheets during transit to and from astore and on a store shelf. See, for example, item 29 in FIG. 2, whichis in the form of a peelable film that is affixed to a portion ofpackage sidewall 25. Exemplary secondary packaging material includespolyolefin and cellophane films. A consumer will remove a portion or allof the secondary packaging material to prepare the primary packages fordispensing.

The present invention is also directed to methods of dispensing fibrousstructure sheets. Exemplary dispensing methods are shown in FIGS. 12-15.It should be understood that while the dispensing methods could bepracticed with exemplary package embodiments shown in the packagefigures herein, other alternative package embodiments could also beemployed to practice the dispensing methods. It should also beunderstood that while the below description uses terms like “first”,“second” and so forth, that the steps can be conducted in various ordersand/or simultaneously unless explicitly communicated otherwise.

A first exemplary dispensing method 100 is provided in FIG. 12. Method100 includes a first step 102 of providing a primary package comprisinga package base, a package top, and a sidewall, wherein the packagecontains a plurality of fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent oneanother and being in a non-planar configuration, and wherein the primarypackage comprises secondary packaging material disposed on at least someof an exterior of the primary package; a second step 104 of removing thesecondary packaging material; a third step 106 of displacing at least aportion of at least one of the package base, the package top, and thesidewall to provide access to one of the plurality of fibrous structuresheets; and a fourth step 108 following step 106 of repositioning thedisplaced package base, package top, and/or sidewall.

A second exemplary dispensing method 110 is shown in FIG. 13. Method 110includes a first step 112 of providing a package comprising a pluralityof fibrous structure sheets that are stacked adjacent one another andthat are in a non-planar configuration to define an interior void, apackage base comprising an extension that is disposed within theinterior void of a lowermost one of the plurality of fibrous structuresheets, and a package top comprising an extension capable of beingfitted into the interior void of another one of the plurality of fibrousstructure sheets; a second step 114 of removing the package top; and athird step 116 of removing some of the plurality of fibrous structuresheets and placing them onto the package top extension to create twoseparate stacks of fibrous structure sheets from the same package toenable different time and/or location dispensing of the plurality offibrous structure sheets.

A third exemplary dispensing method 120 is illustrated in FIG. 14.Method 120 includes a first step 122 of providing a package comprising afirst package configuration, and a plurality of stacked fibrousstructure sheets that are in a first sheet configuration disposed withinthe package; a second step 124 of dispensing a first sheet from theplurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the firstsheet from the first sheet configuration to a second sheet configurationfor use; a third step 126 of affirmatively manipulating the package fromthe first package configuration to a second package configuration; and afourth step 128 of dispensing a second sheet from the plurality ofstacked fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the second sheet fromthe first sheet configuration to a third sheet configuration for use.

A fourth exemplary dispensing method 130 is shown in FIG. 15. Method 130includes a first step 132 of providing a package comprising a pluralityof fibrous structure sheets in a stacked configuration, a re-closableaccess, and a first package configuration; a second step 134 of openingthe re-closable access to dispense one or more of the plurality offibrous structure sheets; and a third step 136 of closing there-closable access. Conducting step 136 also changes the package into asecond package configuration that is different from the first packageconfiguration.

Test Methods

Unless otherwise specified, all tests described herein including thosedescribed under the Definitions section and the following test methodsare conducted on samples that have been conditioned in a conditionedroom at a temperature of 23° C.±1.0° C. and a relative humidity of50%±2% for a minimum of 24 hours prior to the test. All plastic andpaper board packaging articles of manufacture, if any, must be carefullyremoved from the samples prior to testing. The samples tested are“usable units.” “Usable units” as used herein means sheets, flats fromroll stock, pre-converted flats, fibrous structure, and/or single ormulti-ply products. Except where noted all tests are conducted in suchconditioned room, all tests are conducted under the same environmentalconditions and in such conditioned room. Discard any damaged product. Donot test samples that have defects such as wrinkles, tears, holes, andlike. All instruments are calibrated according to manufacturer'sspecifications.

Basis Weight Test Method

Basis weight of a fibrous structure is measured on stacks of twelveusable units using a top loading analytical balance with a resolution of±0.001 g. The balance is protected from air drafts and otherdisturbances using a draft shield. A precision cutting die, measuring8.890 cm±0.00889 cm by 8.890 cm±0.00889 cm is used to prepare allsamples.

With a precision cutting die, cut the samples into squares. Combine thecut squares to form a stack twelve samples thick. Measure the mass ofthe sample stack and record the result to the nearest 0.001 g.

The Basis Weight is calculated in g/m² as follows:

Basis Weight=(Mass of stack)/[(Area of 1 square in stack)×(No. ofsquares in stack)]

Basis Weight (g/m²)=Mass of stack (g)/[79.032 (cm²)/10,000 (cm²/m²)×12]

Report result to the nearest 0.1 g/m². Sample dimensions can be changedor varied using a similar precision cutter as mentioned above, so as atleast 645 square centimeters of sample area is in the stack.

CRT Absorbency

This test incorporates the following CRT equipment absorbencycalculation methods

The Slope of the Square Root of Time (SST 2-15) Test Method.

The Time Integrated CRTMax (TIR.005) Test Method

CRT Capacity Test Method

The SST method and CRTMax TIR method both measure rate over a widespectrum of time to capture a view of the product pick-up rate over theuseful lifetime. In particular, the SST method measures the absorbencyrate via the slope of the mass versus the square root of time from 2-15seconds. The CRTMAX TIR measures time integrated absorbency rate using a0.005 g/sec threshold stop criteria.

Overview

The absorption (wicking) of water by a fibrous sample is measured overtime. A sample is placed horizontally in the instrument and is supportedby an open weave net structure that rests on a balance. The test isinitiated when a tube connected to a water reservoir is raised and themeniscus makes contact with the center of the sample from beneath, at asmall negative pressure. Absorption is controlled by the ability of thesample to pull the water from the instrument for approximately 20seconds. Rate is determined as the slope of the regression line of theoutputted weight vs sqrt (time) from 2 to 15 seconds.

Apparatus

Conditioned Room—Temperature is controlled from 73° F.+2° F. (23° C.+1°C.). Relative Humidity is controlled from 50%+2%

Sample Preparation—Product samples are cut using hydraulic/pneumaticprecision cutter into 3.375 inch diameter circles for SST, CRT Max and 3inch diameter circles for CRT capacity.

Capacity Rate Tester (CRT)—The CRT is an absorbency tester capable ofmeasuring capacity and rate. The CRT consists of a balance (0.001 g), onwhich rests on a woven grid (using nylon monofilament line having a0.014″ diameter) placed over a small reservoir with a delivery tube inthe center. This reservoir is filled by the action of solenoid valves,which help to connect the sample supply reservoir to an intermediatereservoir, the water level of which is monitored by an optical sensor.The CRT is run with a −2 mm water column, controlled by adjusting theheight of water in the supply reservoir.

Software—LabView based custom software specific to CRT Version 4.2 orlater.

Water—Distilled water with conductivity <10 μS/cm (target <5 μS/cm) @25° C.

Sample Preparation

For this method, a usable unit is described as one finished product unitregardless of the number of plies. Condition all samples with packagingmaterials removed for a minimum of 2 hours prior to testing. Discard atleast the first ten usable units from the roll. Remove two usable unitsand cut one 3.375-inch (SST, CRTMax) or 3.0 inch (CRT Capacity) circularsample from the center of each usable unit for a total of 2 replicatesfor each test result. Do not test samples with defects such as wrinkles,tears, holes, etc. Replace with another usable unit which is free ofsuch defects

Sample Testing Pre-Test Set-Up

-   -   1. The water height in the reservoir tank is set −2.0 mm below        the top of the support rack (where the towel sample will be        placed).    -   2. The supply tube (8 mm I.D.) is centered with respect to the        support net.    -   3. Test samples are cut into circles of 3⅜″ SST, CRTMax) or 3″        (CRT Capacity) diameter and equilibrated at Tappi environment        conditions for a minimum of 2 hours.    -   4.

Test Description

-   -   1. After pressing the start button on the software application,        the supply tube moves to 0.33 mm below the water height in the        reserve tank. This creates a small meniscus of water above the        supply tube to ensure test initiation. A valve between the tank        and the supply tube closes, and the scale is zeroed.    -   2. The software prompts you to “load a sample”. A sample is        placed on the support net, centering it over the supply tube,        and with the side facing the outside of the roll placed        downward.    -   3. Close the balance windows, and press the “OK” button—the        software records the dry weight of the circle.    -   4. The software prompts you to “place cover on sample”. The        plastic cover is placed on top of the sample, on top of the        support net. The plastic cover has a center pin (which is flush        with the outside rim) to ensure that the sample is in the proper        position to establish hydraulic connection. Four other pins, 1        mm shorter in depth, are positioned 1.25-1.5 inches radially        away from the center pin to ensure the sample is flat during the        test. The sample cover rim should not contact the sheet. Close        the top balance window and click “OK”.    -   5. The software re-zeroes the scale and then moves the supply        tube towards the sample. When the supply tube reaches its        destination, which is 0.33 mm below the support net, the valve        opens (i.e., the valve between the reserve tank and the supply        tube), and hydraulic connection is established between the        supply tube and the sample. Data acquisition occurs at a rate of        5 Hz, and is started about 0.4 seconds before water contacts the        sample.    -   6. The test runs for at least 20 seconds. For CRTMax test is        stopped when rate of increase of water absorbed falls below        0.005 g/s otherwise test stops at 300 seconds. For CRT Capacity        the test is stopped when rate of increase of water absorbed        falls below 0.0015 g/s otherwise test stops at 300 secs. After        this, the supply tube pulls away from the sample to break the        hydraulic connection.    -   7. The wet sample is removed from the support net. Residual        water on the support net and cover are dried with a paper towel.    -   8. Repeat until all samples are tested.    -   9. After each test is run, a *.txt file is created (typically        stored in the CRT/data/rate directory) with a file name as typed        at the start of the test. The file contains all the test set-up        parameters, dry sample weight, and cumulative water absorbed (g)        vs. time (sec) data collected from the test.    -   Calculating CRT Capacity g/sq inch

Capacity (g/sq in)=0.14147×Final Weight (g water absorbed)

-   -   Where 0.14147 is the inverse of the area of the 3 inch circle        and this multiplier converts values to a per square inch basis

Calculation of Rate of Uptake

Take the raw data file that includes time and weight data.

First, create a new time column that subtracts 0.4 seconds from the rawtime data to adjust the raw time data to correspond to when initiationactually occurs (about 0.4 seconds after data collection begins).

Second, create a column of data that converts the adjusted time data tosquare root of time data (e.g., using a formula such as SQRT( ) withinExcel).

Third, calculate the slope of the weight data vs the square root of timedata (e.g., using the SLOPE( ) function within Excel, using the weightdata as the y-data and the sqrt(time) data as the x-data, etc.). Theslope should be calculated for the data points from 2 to 15 seconds,inclusive (or 1.41 to 3.87 in the sqrt(time) data column).

Calculation of Slope of the Square Root of Time (SST 2-15)

The start time of water contact with the sample is estimated to be 0.4seconds after the start of hydraulic connection is established betweenthe supply tube and the sample (CRT Time). This is because dataacquisition begins while the tube is still moving towards the sample,and incorporates the small delay in scale response. Thus, “time zero” isactually at 0.4 seconds in CRT Time as recorded in the *.txt file.

The slope of the square root of time (SST) from 2-15 seconds iscalculated from the slope of a linear regression line from the squareroot of time between (and including) 2 to 15 seconds (x-axis) versus thecumulative grams of water absorbed. The units are g/sec^(0.5).

Reporting Results

Report the average slope to the nearest 0.01 g/s^(0.5).

Calculation of Time Integrated Rate with 0.005 g/s threshold (CRTMax TIR0.005)

CRTMax TIR.0.005, aka “time integrated rate using a 0.005 g/secthreshold”, is calculated by integrating the area under the rate (g/sec,y-axis) vs. time (sec, x-axis) curve, starting at “CRT time”=0.4, untilthe “Time Average Rate” is 0.005 g/sec or less (referencing “TimeAverage Rate” beginning at CRT Time=1.4 sec).

CRT MaxTIR.0.005=Σ[(CA(i)−CA(i−1))*IR(i)]+[(CA(i)−CA(i−1))*(IR(i−1)−IR(i))*0.5)]

Where:

-   i=CRT Time increment, starting at 0.4 sec, until the “CRT Time” when    Time Average Rate (at 1.4 seconds and after), is equal to or below    0.005 g/sec.-   CA=cumulative water absorbed (g)-   IR=instantaneous rate (g/sec)

Elongation/Tensile Strength/TEA/Tangent Modulus Test Method

Elongation (Stretch), Tensile Strength, TEA and Tangent Modulus aremeasured on a constant rate of extension tensile tester with computerinterface (a suitable instrument is the EJA Vantage from theThwing-Albert Instrument Co. Wet Berlin, N.J.) using a load cell forwhich the forces measured are within 10% to 90% of the limit of the loadcell. Both the movable (upper) and stationary (lower) pneumatic jaws arefitted with smooth stainless steel faced grips, with a design suitablefor testing 1 inch wide sheet material (Thwing-Albert item #733GC). Anair pressure of about 60 psi is supplied to the jaws.

Eight usable units of fibrous structures are divided into two stacks offour usable units each. The usable units in each stack are consistentlyoriented with respect to machine direction (MD) and cross direction(CD). One of the stacks is designated for testing in the MD and theother for CD. Using a one inch precision cutter (Thwing-Albert JDC-1-10,or similar) take a CD stack and cut one, 1.00 in ±0.01 in wide by 3-4 inlong stack of strips (long dimension in CD). In like fashion cut theremaining stack in the MD (strip's long dimension in MD), to give atotal of 8 specimens, four CD and four MD strips. Each strip to betested is one usable unit thick, and will be treated as a unitaryspecimen for testing.

Program the tensile tester to perform an extension test, collectingforce and extension data at an acquisition rate of 20 Hz as thecrosshead raises at a rate of 2.00 in/min (5.08 cm/min) until thespecimen breaks. The break sensitivity is set to 80%, i.e., the test isterminated when the measured force drops to 20% of the maximum peakforce, after which the crosshead is returned to its original position.

Set the gage length to 1.00 inch. Zero the crosshead and load cell.Insert the specimen into the upper and lower open grips such that atleast 0.5 inches of specimen length is contained in each grip. Alignspecimen vertically within the upper and lower jaws, then close theupper grip. Verify specimen is aligned, then close lower grip. Thespecimen should be fairly straight between grips, with no more than 5.0g of force on the load cell. Add a pre-tension force of 3 g. Thistension is applied to the specimen to define the adjusted gauge length,and, by definition is the zero strain point. Start the tensile testerand data collection. Repeat testing in like fashion for all four CD andfour MD specimens. Program the software to calculate the following fromthe constructed force (g) versus extension (in) curve.

Eight samples are run on the Tensile Tester (four to the MD and four tothe CD) and average of the respective dry total tensile, dry Fail TEAand dry Fail Stretch is reported as the Dry Total Tensile, Dry Fail TEAand Dry Fail Stretch. Fail TEA is defined as tensile energy absorbed(area under the load vs. strain tensile curve) from zero strain to failforce point, with units of g/in. Dry Fail Stretch is defined as thepercentage strain measured after the web is strained past its peak loadpoint, where the force drops to exactly 50% of its peak load force.

The dry Fail TEA is then divided by the basis weight of the strip fromwhich it was tested to arrive at the TEA of the present invention, andis calculated as follows:

TEA=Fail TEA/Basis Weight of Strip (g/m²)

The MD and CD dry tensile strengths are determined using the aboveequipment and calculations in the following manner.

Tensile Strength in general is the maximum peak force (g) divided by thespecimen width (1 in), and reported as g/in to the nearest 1 g/in.

Average Tensile Strength=sum of tensile loads measures (MD)/(Number oftensile stripes tested (MD)*Number of useable units or plys per tensilestripe)

This calculation is repeated for cross direction testing.

Dry Total Tensile=Average MD tensile strength+Average CD tensilestrength

The Dry Tensile value is then normalized for the basis weight of thestrip from which it was tested. The normalized basis weight used is 24g/m², and is calculated as follows:

Normalized {DTT}={DTT}*24 (g/m²)/Basis Weight of Strip (g/m²)

The various values are calculated for the four CD specimens and the fourMD specimens. Calculate an average for each parameter separately for theCD and MD specimens.

EXAMPLES

The following Examples of the present disclosure describe variousembodiments of the disclosure.

-   -   A. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method        including the steps of:        -   a. providing a primary package including a package base, a            package top, and a sidewall, wherein the package contains a            plurality of fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one            another and being in a non-planar configuration, and wherein            the primary package comprises secondary packaging material            disposed on at least some of an exterior of the primary            package;        -   b. removing the secondary packaging material;        -   c. displacing at least a portion of at least one of the            package base, the package top, and the sidewall to provide            access to one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets;            and        -   d. thereafter repositioning the displaced package base,            package top, and/or sidewall.    -   B. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method        including the steps of:        -   a. providing a package including a plurality of fibrous            structure sheets that are stacked adjacent one another and            that are in a non-planar configuration to define an interior            void, a package base including an extension that is disposed            within the interior void of a lowermost one of the plurality            of fibrous structure sheets, and a package top including an            extension capable of being fitted into the interior void of            another one of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets;        -   b. removing the package top; and        -   c. removing some of the plurality of fibrous structure            sheets and placing them onto the package top extension to            create two separate stacks of fibrous structure sheets from            the same package to enable different time and/or location            dispensing of the plurality of fibrous structure sheets.    -   C. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including:        -   a. a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are folded            or otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration            to a non-planar dispensing configuration, the plurality of            fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another in            their dispensing configuration to form a sheet stack            including a stack bottom and a stack top; and        -   b. a fiber-based disposable package including a package            base, a package top, and a sidewall;        -   c. wherein the package base covers the stack bottom and the            package top covers the stack top; and        -   d. wherein at least a portion of at least one of the package            base, the package top, and the sidewall is capable of being            temporarily displaced to dispense one of the fibrous            structure sheets from the sheet stack and then repositioned            thereafter.    -   D. The package of Example C, wherein the package top is capable        of being temporarily displaced to dispense one of the fibrous        structure sheets from the sheet stack and then repositioned        thereafter.    -   E. The package of any of Examples C and D, wherein the        dispensing configuration is conical.    -   F. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the        dispensing configuration is pyramidal.    -   G. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the        dispensing configuration comprises a peak.    -   H. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the        dispensing configuration comprises a pleat.    -   I. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein each of        the plurality of fibrous structure sheets in their dispensing        configuration has a base and/or cross-sectional geometry that is        substantially similar to a geometry of at least one of the        package base and the package top.    -   J. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the        fibrous structure sheets are capable of taking on a use        configuration that is different than both the first planar        configuration and the non-planar dispensing configuration.    -   K. The package of any of the previous Examples, further        including a secondary package material that can be removed after        purchasing the package and prior to dispensing the fibrous        structure sheets from the package.    -   L. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the        fibrous structure sheets are paper towels.    -   M. The package of any of the previous Examples, wherein the        fibrous structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of from        about 0.1 grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square        inch according to the CRT absorbency test method disclosed        herein.    -   N. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including:        -   a. a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are folded            or otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration            to a non-planar dispensing configuration, the plurality of            fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another in            their dispensing configuration to form a sheet stack            including a stack bottom and a stack top; and        -   b. a disposable package including package components            including a package base, a package top, and a sidewall            attached to the package base and/or the package top;        -   c. wherein the package base covers the stack bottom and the            package top covers the stack top; and        -   d. wherein at least a portion of at least one of the package            base, the package top, and a portion of the sidewall is            capable of being moved from a first location to a second            location while still being attached to other package            components to dispense one of the fibrous structure sheets            from the sheet stack and then repositioned thereafter to the            first location.    -   O. The package of Example N, wherein the dispensing        configuration is conical.    -   P. The package of Example N or O, wherein the dispensing        configuration is pyramidal.    -   Q. The package of any of Examples N-P, wherein the dispensing        configuration comprises a peak.    -   R. The package of any of Examples N-Q, wherein the dispensing        configuration comprises a pleat.    -   S. The package of any of Examples N-R, wherein each of the        plurality of fibrous structure sheets in their dispensing        configuration has a base and/or cross-sectional geometry that is        substantially similar to a geometry of at least one of the        package base and the package top.    -   T. The package of any of Examples N-S, wherein the fibrous        structure sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration        that is different than both the first planar configuration and        the non-planar dispensing configuration.    -   U. The package of any of Examples N-T, further including a        secondary package material that can be removed after purchasing        the package and prior to dispensing the fibrous structure sheets        from the package.    -   V. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package including:        -   a. a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that are folded            or otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration            to a non-planar dispensing configuration, the plurality of            fibrous structure sheets stacked adjacent one another in            their dispensing configuration to form a sheet stack            including a stack bottom and a stack top; and        -   b. a package including a package base that covers the stack            bottom, a package top that covers the stack top, and a            sidewall;        -   c. wherein the sidewall has an opening; and        -   d. wherein a clearance gap exists between at least one of            the package base and stack bottom and the package top and            stack top to permit dispensing the fibrous structure sheets            from the opening in the sidewall without displacing the            package base or the package top.    -   W. The package of Example V, wherein the dispensing        configuration is conical.    -   X. The package of Example V or W, wherein the dispensing        configuration is pyramidal.    -   Y. The package of any of Examples V-X, wherein the dispensing        configuration comprises a peak.    -   Z. The package of any of Examples V-Y, wherein the dispensing        configuration comprises a pleat.    -   AA. The package of any of Examples V-Z, wherein the fibrous        structure sheets are paper towels.    -   BB. The package of any of Examples V-AA, wherein the fibrous        structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of from about 0.1        grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square inch        according to the CRT absorbency test method disclosed herein.    -   CC. The package of any of Examples V-BB, wherein the fibrous        structure sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration        that is different than both the first planar configuration and        the non-planar dispensing configuration.    -   DD. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method        including the steps of:        -   a. providing a package including a first package            configuration, and a plurality of stacked fibrous structure            sheets that are in a first sheet configuration disposed            within the package;        -   b. dispensing a first sheet from the plurality of stacked            fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the first sheet            from the first sheet configuration to a second sheet            configuration for use;        -   c. thereafter affirmatively manipulating the package from            the first package configuration to a second package            configuration; and        -   d. thereafter dispensing a second sheet from the plurality            of stacked fibrous structure sheets and manipulating the            second sheet from the first sheet configuration to a third            sheet configuration for use.    -   EE. The method of Example DD, wherein the first sheet        configuration is a non-planar configuration.    -   FF. The method of Example DD or EE, wherein the first sheet        configuration is a conical shape.    -   GG. The method of any of Examples DD-FF, wherein the first sheet        configuration is a pyramid shape.    -   HH. The method of any of Examples DD-GG, wherein the first sheet        configuration comprises at least one pleat.    -   II. The method of any of Examples DD-HH, wherein at least one of        the second sheet configuration and the third sheet configuration        is substantially planar.    -   JJ. The method of any of Examples DD-II, wherein the package has        a first size associated with the first package configuration and        a second size associated with the second package configuration,        and wherein the second size is smaller than the first size.    -   KK. The method of any of Examples DD-JJ, wherein the step of        affirmatively manipulating package from the first package        configuration to a second package configuration comprises        removing a portion of the package.    -   LL. The method of any of Examples DD-KK, wherein the step of        affirmatively manipulating package from the first package        configuration to a second package configuration comprises        folding, rolling, or bending a portion of the package.    -   MM. The method of any of Examples DD-LL, wherein the package        comprises a sidewall that in the first package configuration        covers at least some of all of the plurality of stacked fibrous        structure sheets.    -   NN. The method of any of Examples DD-MM, further including a        step (e.) of affirmatively manipulating the package from the        second package configuration back to the first package        configuration.    -   OO. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package        including:        -   a. a package including a first package configuration and an            adaptation feature; and        -   b. a plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets that are            in a dispensing configuration disposed within the package;        -   c. wherein the plurality of sheets are capable of being            transformed from the dispensing configuration to a use            configuration that is different from the dispensing            configuration;        -   d. wherein some of the plurality of sheets are accessible            for dispensing when the package is in the first package            configuration; and        -   e. wherein the package is capable of being manipulated from            the first package configuration to a second package            configuration via the adaptation feature to make other of            the plurality of sheets accessible for dispensing.    -   PP. The package of Example OO, wherein the adaptation feature is        located on a package sidewall.    -   QQ. The package of Example OO or PP, wherein the adaptation        feature comprises a fold line.    -   RR. The package of any of Examples OO-QQ, wherein the adaptation        feature comprises a line of weakness.    -   SS. The package of any of Examples OO-RR, wherein the dispensing        configuration is non-planar.    -   TT. The package any of Examples OO-SS, wherein the dispensing        configuration is conical.    -   UU. The package of any of Examples OO-TT, wherein the dispensing        configuration is pyramidal.    -   VV. The package of any of Examples OO-UU, wherein the dispensing        configuration comprises a peak.    -   WW. The package of any of Examples OO-VV, wherein the use        configuration is substantially planar.    -   XX. The package any of Examples OO-WW, wherein the package has a        first size associated with the first package configuration and a        second size associated with the second package configuration,        and wherein the second size is smaller than the first size.    -   YY. The package of any of Examples OO-XX, wherein the fibrous        structure sheets are paper towels.    -   ZZ. The package of any of Examples OO-YY, wherein the fibrous        structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of from about 0.1        grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square inch        according to the CRT absorbency test method disclosed herein.    -   AAA. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package        including:        -   a. a package including a first component, a second component            that is more rigid than the first component, and a            re-sealable member; and        -   b. a plurality of fibrous structure sheets disposed within            the package, each of the plurality of fibrous structure            sheets being folded or otherwise manipulated from a first            planar configuration to a non-planar dispensing            configuration;        -   c. wherein the plurality of sheets are capable of being            transformed from the dispensing configuration to a use            configuration that is different from the dispensing            configuration;        -   d. wherein the plurality of fibrous structure sheets are            substantially completely enclosed when the re-sealable            member is in a closed position to help keep them from            becoming wet prior to dispensing; and        -   e. wherein the plurality of fibrous structure sheets can be            dispensed from the package when the re-sealable member is in            an open position.    -   BBB. The package of Example AAA, wherein the first component        comprises at least one of a polymeric film and a nonwoven web.    -   CCC. The package of Example AAA or BBB, wherein the second        component comprises paper board stock.    -   DDD. The package of any of AAA-CCC, wherein re-sealable member        comprises a tongue and groove closure.    -   EEE. The package of any of AAA-DDD, wherein the re-sealable        member comprises an over label including adhesive.    -   FFF. The package of any of AAA-EEE, wherein the dispensing        configuration is conical.    -   GGG. The package of claim 53, wherein the dispensing        configuration is pyramidal.    -   HHH. The package of any of AAA-GGG, wherein the dispensing        configuration comprises a peak.    -   III. The package of any of AAA-HHH, wherein the dispensing        configuration comprises a pleat.    -   JJJ. The package of any of AAA-III, wherein the fiber structure        sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration that is        different than both the planar configuration and the dispensing        configuration.    -   KKK. A package of fibrous structure sheets, the package        including:        -   a. a package including a re-closable access; and        -   b. a plurality of fibrous structure sheets disposed within            the package, each of the plurality of fibrous structure            sheets being folded or otherwise manipulated from a first            planar configuration to a non-planar dispensing            configuration;        -   c. wherein the plurality of sheets are capable of being            transformed from the dispensing configuration to a use            configuration that is different from the dispensing            configuration;        -   d. wherein the plurality of sheets are dry;        -   e. wherein the plurality of fibrous structure sheets are            enclosed when the re-closable access is in a closed            position; and        -   f. wherein the plurality of fibrous structure sheets can be            dispensed from the package when the re-closable access is in            an open position.    -   LLL. The package of Example KKK, wherein the dispensing        configuration is conical.    -   MMM. The package of Example KKK or LLL, wherein the dispensing        configuration is pyramidal.    -   NNN. The package of any of Examples KKK-MMM, wherein the        dispensing configuration comprises a peak.    -   OOO. The package any of Examples KKK-NNN, wherein the dispensing        configuration comprises a pleat.    -   PPP. The package of any of Examples KKK-OOO, wherein the fiber        structure sheets are capable of taking on a use configuration        that is different than both the planar configuration and the        dispensing configuration.    -   QQQ. The package any of Examples KKK-PPP, wherein the fibrous        structure sheets are paper towels.    -   RRR. The package of any of Examples KKK-QQQ, wherein the fibrous        structure sheets have an absorbent capacity of from about 0.1        grams per square inch to about 1.5 grams per square inch        according to the CRT absorbency test method disclosed herein.    -   SSS. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method        including the steps of:        -   g. providing a package including a plurality of fibrous            structure sheets in a stacked configuration, a re-closable            access, and a first package configuration;        -   h. opening the re-closable access to dispense one or more of            the plurality of fibrous structure sheets; and        -   i. closing the re-closable access;        -   j. wherein conducting the step (c.) also changes the package            into a second package configuration that is different from            the first package configuration.

In the interests of brevity and conciseness, any ranges of values setforth in this specification are to be construed as written descriptionsupport for claims reciting any sub-ranges having endpoints which arewhole number values within the specified range in question. By way of ahypothetical illustrative example, a disclosure in this specification ofa range of 1-5 shall be considered to support claims to any of thefollowing sub-ranges: 1-4; 1-3; 1-2; 2-5; 2-4; 2-3; 3-5; 3-4; and 4-5.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean“about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or relatedpatent or application and any patent application or patent to which thisapplication claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded orotherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission thatit is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimedherein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other referenceor references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention.Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in thisdocument conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in adocument incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assignedto that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A package of fibrous structure sheets, thepackage including: a. a plurality of fibrous structure sheets that arefolded or otherwise manipulated from a first planar configuration to anon-planar dispensing configuration, the plurality of fibrous structuresheets stacked adjacent one another in their dispensing configuration toform a sheet stack including a stack bottom and a stack top; and b. adisposable package including package components including a packagebase, a package top, and a sidewall attached to the package base and/orthe package top; c. wherein the package base covers the stack bottom andthe package top covers the stack top; and d. wherein at least a portionof at least one of the package base, the package top, and a portion ofthe sidewall is capable of being moved from a first location to a secondlocation while still being attached to other package components todispense one of the fibrous structure sheets from the sheet stack andthen repositioned thereafter to the first location.
 2. The package ofclaim 1, wherein the dispensing configuration is conical.
 3. The packageof claim 1, wherein the dispensing configuration is pyramidal.
 4. Thepackage of claim 1, wherein the dispensing configuration comprises apeak.
 5. The package of claim 1, wherein the dispensing configurationcomprises a pleat.
 6. The package of claim 1, wherein each of theplurality of fibrous structure sheets in their dispensing configurationhas a base and/or cross-sectional geometry that is substantially similarto a geometry of at least one of the package base and the package top.7. A method of dispensing fibrous structure sheets, the method includingthe steps of: e. providing a package including a first packageconfiguration, and a plurality of stacked fibrous structure sheets thatare in a first sheet configuration disposed within the package; f.dispensing a first sheet from the plurality of stacked fibrous structuresheets and manipulating the first sheet from the first sheetconfiguration to a second sheet configuration for use; g. thereafteraffirmatively manipulating the package from the first packageconfiguration to a second package configuration; and h. thereafterdispensing a second sheet from the plurality of stacked fibrousstructure sheets and manipulating the second sheet from the first sheetconfiguration to a third sheet configuration for use.
 8. The method ofclaim 7, wherein the first sheet configuration is a non-planarconfiguration.
 9. The method of claim 7, wherein the first sheetconfiguration is a conical shape.
 10. The method of claim 7, wherein thefirst sheet configuration is a pyramid shape.
 11. The method of claim 7,wherein the first sheet configuration comprises at least one pleat. 12.The method of claim 7, wherein at least one of the second sheetconfiguration and the third sheet configuration is substantially planar.13. The method of claim 7, wherein the package has a first sizeassociated with the first package configuration and a second sizeassociated with the second package configuration, and wherein the secondsize is smaller than the first size.
 14. The method of claim 7, whereinthe step of affirmatively manipulating package from the first packageconfiguration to a second package configuration comprises removing aportion of the package.
 15. The method of claim 7, wherein the step ofaffirmatively manipulating package from the first package configurationto a second package configuration comprises folding, rolling, or bendinga portion of the package.
 16. A package of fibrous structure sheets, thepackage including: f. a package including a first package configurationand an adaptation feature; and g. a plurality of stacked fibrousstructure sheets that are in a dispensing configuration disposed withinthe package; h. wherein the plurality of sheets are capable of beingtransformed from the dispensing configuration to a use configurationthat is different from the dispensing configuration; i. wherein some ofthe plurality of sheets are accessible for dispensing when the packageis in the first package configuration; and j. wherein the package iscapable of being manipulated from the first package configuration to asecond package configuration via the adaptation feature to make other ofthe plurality of sheets accessible for dispensing.
 17. The package ofclaim 16, wherein the adaptation feature is located on a packagesidewall.
 18. The package of claim 16, wherein the adaptation featurecomprises a fold line.
 19. The package of claim 16, wherein theadaptation feature comprises a line of weakness.
 20. The package ofclaim 16, wherein the dispensing configuration is non-planar.